National News

Aust tourist killed in Alaska plane crash

An adventurous Australian businessman described as "a devoted family man" has been killed in the collision of two sightseeing seaplanes in Alaska.

Alaska State Troopers confirmed on Tuesday that Simon Bodie, 56, from Tempe in Sydney's inner-west, was one of six people killed in the horror crash.

The father of two was believed to have taken the flight as a side trip from a cruise he was on along the Alaskan coast with Stephanie, his wife of 31 years.

A statement from the family issued through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade read: "Simon was a unique beautiful person and a devoted family man. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him."

Mr Bodie was a successful businessman who was adventurous, loved sailing, was a pilot himself and was very safety conscious, the Nine Network reported.

The collision occurred when a larger de Havilland Otter DHC-3, carrying 10 passengers and the pilot, was returning from Misty Fjord and collided with a smaller DHC-2 Beaver.

"The Australian unfortunately is one of the people confirmed deceased," US Coast Guard Lieutenant Brian Dykens told AAP.

The nationalities of the people from both planes are 14 Americans, a Canadian and Mr Brodie.

The planes crashed into the icy cold waters off a southeast Alaska inlet near Ketchikan, a popular destination for cruise ships in Alaska.

The Royal Princess, which can carry up to 3600 people, was among four city-sized cruise ships in the tiny coastal community on the day.

A popular activity is flightseeing in Misty Fjords National Monument to view lakes, snowcapped peaks and glacier valleys in the wilderness area.

"We have been in regular contact with the family members throughout our search efforts," US Coast Guard Captain Stephen White said.

"This is not the outcome we hoped for and extend our deepest sympathies during this very difficult time."